Jersey City to Oceanside by boat

Pilotage Plan: Jersey City, NJ to Oceanside, NY

Embarking on a journey from Jersey City to Oceanside offers a delightful mix of urban and coastal navigation, providing a unique experience for recreational boaters. This route is well-suited for weekend cruisers and intermediate sailors looking for a picturesque adventure while honing their navigational skills.

Route Overview

Starting in Jersey City, you’ll navigate through the bustling Port of New York and New Jersey, eventually making your way towards the Atlantic coast. The trip can be planned over a single day, but you may find it worthwhile to break it into segments, allowing for exploration of nearby attractions and safe harbors.

Points of Interest & Anchorages

1. Liberty State Park (approx. 2 miles from start): A stunning view of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. This area provides ample space for mooring and a peaceful spot to enjoy a picnic or short walk.

2. Hoboken (approx. 3 miles from start): Known for its vibrant waterfront, Hoboken offers dining options and beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline.

3. Upper New York Bay: As you move towards the Upper Bay, be mindful of maritime traffic, especially ferries. Use a reliable navigation app like Savvy Navvy to assist with route plotting.

4. The Kill van Kull: Navigate through this waterway carefully, as it can have rapid currents and commercial shipping traffic. Staying in designated channels and keeping an eye on your charts is essential.

5. Arthur Kill: This area can have less recreational traffic compared to the Hudson and may provide a more serene experience. However, always remain alert for tugs and barges.

6. Staten Island and Great Kills Harbor: This natural harbor on Staten Island provides a wonderful refuge with excellent shelter in bad weather. It’s a popular spot for boaters and offers numerous beaches and parks.

7. Manasquan Inlet: If conditions allow, this inlet allows access to the ocean side. It may be worth dropping anchor here for a short rest, should it be feasible with your timing.

8. Oceanside: Your destination, which offers beautiful beaches and plenty of local eateries to explore. from Oceanside, the South Shore of Long Island opens up a wealth of seaside experiences.

Navigation Considerations & Hazards

• Charts & Aids: Carry up-to-date nautical charts and ensure your GPS is functional. Important navigational aids along the route include various buoys marking channels, especially in the busy waters of the Port of New York.

• Weather Awareness: Always check marine weather forecasts before departure. Conditions can change rapidly, especially while approaching the Atlantic coast.

• Traffic Regulations: Be cautious of commercial traffic in the shipping lanes. Always maintain a safe distance from large vessels and adhere to the COLREGS (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea).

• Channel Depths: Some sections may have varying depths. Ensure your vessel's draft is accounted for and avoid areas marked as shallow on your charts.

Safety Considerations

• Life Jackets: Ensure all passengers are equipped with Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) and know how to use them.

• Communication Devices: Equip your vessel with a VHF radio and ensure someone knows how to operate it. Keep your mobile device charged, and consider additional boating apps like Navionics alongside Savvy Navvy for additional navigation support.

• Emergency Preparedness: Carry a well-stocked emergency kit, including flares, a first-aid kit, and a reliable means of navigation back to port.

This route from Jersey City to Oceanside is a thrilling and scenic opportunity for boaters. With careful planning and navigation, the trip promises to be both safe and enjoyable. Whether you're an experienced sailor or just eager to surf the waters, this voyage offers a mixture of excitement, relaxation, and exploration.